
Ever stood in front of your furry friend, scissors in hand, wondering if you should go for a puppy cut or a kennel cut? You’re not alone. Many Shih Tzu owners find themselves in this hairy situation, unsure which style will keep their pup looking adorable and feeling comfortable.
I’ve given countless haircuts to my Shih Tzus both puppy cuts and kennel cuts. both of these styles Look incredible.
If you don’t want your Shih Tzu looking like it just stumbled out of a bad 80s music video, keep reading. In this post, you’ll learn the key differences between puppy cuts and kennel cuts, and which one might be the perfect fit for your furry friend.
- The Lowdown on Puppy Cuts and Kennel Cuts
- Puppy Cut vs Kennel Cut: The Showdown
- Choosing the Right Cut for Your Shih Tzu
- DIY or Professional Grooming: What's Best for Your Shih Tzu?
- Grooming Tools: Your Shih Tzu's Best Friends
- Maintaining Your Shih Tzu's Cut: Tips and Tricks
- The Final Cut: Puppy or Kennel?
- FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
The Lowdown on Puppy Cuts and Kennel Cuts
What’s a Puppy Cut, Anyway?
A puppy cut is like the “forever young” look for dogs. It’s a style that keeps your Shih Tzu looking like an adorable puppy, no matter their age. Here’s what you need to know:
- Length: The fur is trimmed to about 1-2 inches all over the body.
- Uniformity: The coat is cut to an even length, giving a fluffy, rounded appearance.
- Face: The facial hair is usually trimmed shorter to keep those cute eyes visible.
- Maintenance: It’s easier to maintain than longer styles but still needs regular brushing.

Kennel Cut: The Low-Maintenance MVP
The kennel cut is the go-to style for busy pet parents or dogs who spend time in kennels. Here’s the scoop:
- Length: The fur is cut very short, usually less than an inch long.
- Practicality: It’s designed for easy maintenance and cleanliness.
- Face: The facial hair is often kept slightly longer than the body for that signature Shih Tzu look.
- Cooling: Great for hot climates or active dogs who need to stay cool.

Puppy Cut vs Kennel Cut: The Showdown
Now that you know the basics, let’s pit these two styles against each other in a hair-raising battle!
Round 1: Cuteness Factor
- Puppy Cut: With its fluffy, rounded look, the puppy cut keeps that “aww” factor going strong. It’s like your dog is perpetually in the “puppy” phase.
- Kennel Cut: While still cute, the kennel cut gives a more “grown-up” look. It’s less fluffy but shows off your Shih Tzu’s adorable facial features.
Winner: Puppy Cut (by a whisker!)
Round 2: Maintenance
- Puppy Cut: Requires regular brushing (every 2-3 days) and trips to the groomer every 6-8 weeks.
- Kennel Cut: Minimal brushing needed (once a week is usually enough) and grooming visits can be stretched to every 8-10 weeks.
Winner: Kennel Cut
Round 3: Versatility
- Puppy Cut: Can be modified easily – you can go shorter or longer depending on your preference.
- Kennel Cut: Less room for variation, but you can play around with the length of facial hair.
Winner: Puppy Cut
Round 4: Summer-Friendly
- Puppy Cut: Offers some protection from the sun while still keeping your pup relatively cool.
- Kennel Cut: The ultimate summer cut – keeps your Shih Tzu cool in hot weather.
Winner: Kennel Cut
Round 5: Winter Warmth
- Puppy Cut: Provides decent insulation against cold weather.
- Kennel Cut: Might leave your Shih Tzu shivering in colder climates.
Winner: Puppy Cut

RELATED POST: Puppy Cut vs Teddy Bear Cut: Which Style Is Right for Your Shih Tzu?
Choosing the Right Cut for Your Shih Tzu
Picking between a puppy cut and a kennel cut isn’t just about looks. You’ve got to consider your lifestyle, your dog’s needs, and even the weather! Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Climate: Live somewhere hot? A kennel cut might be your best bet. Dealing with chilly winters? A puppy cut could keep your pup cozier.
- Activity Level: Got an energetic Shih Tzu who loves to romp and play? A kennel cut can help prevent matting and make post-play clean-up a breeze.
- Time for Grooming: Be honest with yourself. If you’re short on time for daily brushing, a kennel cut might be more manageable.
- Your Dog’s Preferences: Some dogs love the feeling of a short cut, while others prefer a bit more fluff. Pay attention to how your Shih Tzu reacts to different lengths.
- Health Issues: If your dog has skin problems, a shorter kennel cut might make it easier to apply medications and keep an eye on their skin condition.
DIY or Professional Grooming: What’s Best for Your Shih Tzu?
You might be wondering if you can tackle these cuts yourself or if you should leave it to the pros. Here’s a quick rundown:
DIY Grooming:
- Pros:
- Can save money in the long run
- Allows you to bond with your dog
- Gives you complete control over the look
- Cons:
- Requires investment in proper tools
- Takes time to learn proper techniques
- Risk of accidents if you’re inexperienced
Professional Grooming:
- Pros:
- Expertise in handling different coat types
- Access to professional-grade tools
- Often includes additional services like nail trimming and ear cleaning
- Cons:
- Can be costly, especially for regular visits
- Might be stressful for some dogs
- Less control over the exact style

If you’re considering the DIY route, start with simple trims and work your way up. For more complex styles or if you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a professional groomer.
RELATED POST YOU WILL LOVE: Summer Cut vs Puppy Cut for Shih Tzus: Which Is Perfect for Your Dog?
Grooming Tools: Your Shih Tzu’s Best Friends
Whether you’re going for a puppy cut or a kennel cut, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a list of must-have items for your Shih Tzu grooming kit:
- Slicker Brush: Perfect for removing tangles and loose fur. You check out this one Highly recommended “ERGONOMIC SLICKER BRUSH“
- Metal Comb: Great for detangling and checking for mats. I’ve got you! Here is a “GRIPSOFT Metal Comb” You should get.
- Grooming Scissors: For trimming around sensitive areas like eyes and paws. Your can check this one out, very flexible “Show Gear Classic scissors”
- Clippers: Essential for achieving an even cut all over.
- Nail Clippers: To keep those little paws in tip-top shape. Recommended Nail clippers “SOFT GRIP NAIL CLIPPERS“
- Dog-Specific Shampoo and Conditioner: To keep that coat looking shiny and healthy. Must Get, “FURBLISS Dog shampoo” it works like magic.
Good quality tools might cost more upfront, but they’ll last longer and make the grooming process smoother for both you and your furry friend.

Maintaining Your Shih Tzu’s Cut: Tips and Tricks
No matter which style you choose, proper maintenance is key to keeping your Shih Tzu looking fabulous. Here are some tips to keep that coat in check:
- Brush Regularly: Even with a short cut, regular brushing helps distribute natural oils and prevent matting.
- Bathe As Needed: Depending on your dog’s activity level, aim for a bath every 3-4 weeks. Use a dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
- Keep an Eye on the Eyes: Shih Tzus are prone to eye issues. Gently clean around the eyes daily to prevent tear stains.
- Trim Between Grooming Sessions: A little touch-up here and there can help maintain the style between full grooming sessions.
- Don’t Forget the Paws: Regularly check and trim the hair between your dog’s paw pads to prevent matting and discomfort.
- Stay on Schedule: Whether you’re grooming at home or visiting a professional, try to stick to a regular grooming schedule to keep your Shih Tzu’s coat manageable.
The Final Cut: Puppy or Kennel?
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best cut for your Shih Tzu depends on your lifestyle, your dog’s needs, and your personal preferences.
If you’re all about that cute, fluffy look and don’t mind a bit of extra grooming, the puppy cut might be your style soulmate. But if you’re after a low-maintenance option that’ll keep your pup cool and comfy, the kennel cut could be your perfect match.
Remember, you can always mix it up! Try a puppy cut for the cooler months and switch to a kennel cut when summer rolls around. The most important thing is that your Shih Tzu is comfortable and happy.
So, armed with this knowledge, are you ready to make the cut? Whether you choose a puppy cut or a kennel cut, your Shih Tzu is sure to look pawsitively adorable!
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
How often should I get my Shih Tzu groomed?
For a puppy cut, aim for every 6-8 weeks. For a kennel cut, you can stretch it to 8-10 weeks.
Can I switch between puppy cuts and kennel cuts?
Absolutely! Many owners switch styles seasonally or just for a change.
Are there any health benefits to either cut?
Both cuts can help prevent matting, which can lead to skin issues. The kennel cut can be beneficial in hot weather to prevent overheating.
Will my Shih Tzu’s hair grow back if I don’t like the cut?
Yes, Shih Tzu hair grows continuously. If you’re not happy with a cut, it will grow out in time.
Can I do these cuts at home?
With practice and the right tools, you can do basic versions of both cuts at home. However, for the best results, especially when starting out, it’s recommended to visit a professional groomer.